Alda Bernice Davis

Following her boss's instructions to come to headquarters, Alda Davis rode across the Great Divide on August 28, 2016. October 30, 1917 Alda Bernice was born to Johnny Fields and Cora Evelyn Placker Powell on the banks of Bois d' Arc Draw where at some point the majority of her life would be spent. Horseback time came early for Alda when she, as an infant, rode on a pillow in front of her mother. Be age 5, she had her own horse and saddle. As they became older, Alda and her brother John A. joined in the family ranch operations in which they learned the lessons that would aid them in making decisions in their future lives. With a book satchel on her shoulder and carrying her lunch in a ½ gallon molasses bucket Alda walked over ½ a mile to attend Clear Creek School. That meant crossing the San Saba River on a pecan log that spanned the river. Finishing grammar school by age 12, she was able to enter high school and graduate at 16. When shorthand and typing were added to the short curriculum the following year, she returned to school to learn those skills with which she would seek employment. At the age of 20, her 1st jobs outside the family ranch were agriculture related. The first was in a ranch loan agency and then a livestock loan agency. At age 21 Alda was appointed the position of House Manager by the federal public housing agency in San Angelo, Texas. She was in charge of 135 units at Goodfellow Air Base. She was there for 2 ½ years. When some family land became available for sale, she and her husband bought it and moved back to Menard with their son to continue ranching. When the drought of the 50's necessitated finding some other employment, she bought a flower shop in Menard which she operated for 13 years before selling it and then she moved back to the ranch. Alda always stayed aware of the affairs of state, having served as Republican chairman of the county for 14 years. She rarely missed a scheduled meeting of the Menard County Commissioners and the hospital board. She remained alert and managed her own affairs until shortly before her Boss's calling her to headquarters. She Married Clarence Davis August 11, 1940 and their son Brian was born November 15, 1941. Both are deceased. Survivors include her granddaughter Carmen Davis Ellis, a great granddaughter Tori Alleman and 2 great-great grandchildren, and nephews Ricky and Barry Powell and cousins Patsy Gibbs and Bill Bankston. A short funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the Heritage Funeral Home in Menard, Tuesday, August 30, 2016 with Rusty Allen officiating, with burial on the family ranch. Honorary Pallbearers: Clayborn Powell, Johnny Gibbs, Bennie Fred Kothmann, Ruben Ramon Jr., Robert Hernandez, John Pierce, Chris Angel, Buck Miller, and Tim Powell.

Alda Bernice Davis

October 30, 1917 - August 28, 2016